Syros: Hike to Halandriani and Kastri with archaeological highlights

On the northeastern coast of Syros’ Apano Meria, facing Tinos and Andros, we set off toward the unified site of Halandriani and Kastri, a place where history and landscape quietly blend.

We start at Halandriani, on the plateau of the Halanda area. Beneath today’s settlement, we come across the remains of an important Early Cycladic community from the 3rd millennium BC. This is also where the largest known Early Bronze Age cemetery in the Cyclades was uncovered, giving the area a strong but understated sense of the past.

From here, we follow the path that leads us to Kastri, the fortified acropolis of the Early Cycladic period. Built on a steep hill above the sea, it is defined by its stone walls, horseshoe shaped towers, and compact houses, connected by narrow stepped passages.

Leaving Kastri behind, we continue through thyme scented slopes and along dry stone walls until we reach the coast. A small, quiet cove with clear waters awaits, offering a simple and rewarding end to the walk, with time for a swim and a moment to take in the open sea.